Akron, OH Buchtel College Fire, Dec 1899

Akron, O., Dec. 21. -- The main building of Buchtel college, including all the laboratories, library, men's and women's dormitories, was burned to the ground. The fire started in the men's dormitory, about 5 p.m., and spread to other portions of the building rapidly. Much of the personal property of the students and a large number of valuable books from the library were saved. The loss is fully $100,000, with $65,000 insurance. A meeting of the students and friends of the college will be held Thursday and it is probable that the college will be rebuilt at once.